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Drug interactions

Dihydroergotamine + Nilotinib

Severity: Major

Dihydroergotamine and Nilotinib: major interaction.

Last updated Sources: UK SmPC

For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.

Summary

Nilotinib inhibits CYP3A4 and may raise dihydroergotamine levels, risking ergotism with vasospasm and ischemia of the limbs, heart or brain. Dihydroergotamine is contraindicated with potent CYP3A4 inhibitors, and nilotinib's inhibition is weaker but still relevant.

What this interaction means in plain words

Dihydroergotamine and Nilotinib can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for.

Dihydroergotamine belongs to Central Nervous System; Nilotinib belongs to Oncology.

Evidence level: Low

Why it happens

Nilotinib inhibits CYP3A4, reducing dihydroergotamine metabolism.

What to do

Avoid the combination and use a non-ergot migraine treatment. If it is unavoidable, monitor for vasospastic symptoms.

What to ask your pharmacist

  • Does the benefit of taking both outweigh the risk in my case?
  • Do I need any blood test, ECG or other check while on both?
  • What early warning signs should I watch for, and what should I do if they appear?

Bring a full list of your medicines, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, to every pharmacy visit.

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References

Frequently asked questions

Can I take Dihydroergotamine with Nilotinib?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Dihydroergotamine and Nilotinib can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for. Nilotinib inhibits CYP3A4 and may raise dihydroergotamine levels, risking ergotism with vasospasm and ischemia of the limbs, heart or brain. Dihydroergotamine is contraindicated with potent CYP3A4 inhibitors, and nilotinib's inhibition is weaker but still relevant.

How serious is the interaction between Dihydroergotamine and Nilotinib?

MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid the combination and use a non-ergot migraine treatment. If it is unavoidable, monitor for vasospastic symptoms.

What other medicines interact with Nilotinib?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Nilotinib with, for example, Amiodarone, Arsenic trioxide, Disopyramide. The full list is on the Nilotinib page.

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